In addition to beautifying spaces, some plants have the ability to improve air quality by removing toxins and increasing humidity. Keeping these plants at home or in the office can create a healthier and more pleasant environment. In this guide, you’ll discover the best air-purifying plants and how to care for them.
Why Have Air-Purifying Plants?
Plants perform photosynthesis, absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. Some species go further, removing pollutants like formaldehyde, benzene, and toluene, which are commonly found in furniture, paints, and cleaning products. The main benefits of these plants include:
- Filtering toxins and pollutants from the air
- Increasing humidity, reducing respiratory problems
- Improving sleep quality and reducing stress
- Creating a natural and cozy decoration
The Best Air-Purifying Plants
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata)
- Removes benzene, formaldehyde, and toluene.
- Tolerates low light and requires infrequent watering.
- Ideal for bedrooms, as it releases oxygen at night.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii)
- Excellent at removing toxins like ammonia and formaldehyde.
- Requires moderate watering and indirect light.
- Its white flowers add elegance to any space.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
- Easy to care for and highly efficient at removing pollutants.
- Thrives in hanging pots and indoor environments.
- Prefers indirect light and slightly moist soil.
4. Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
- Absorbs pollutants and improves air humidity.
- Needs bright indirect light and moderate watering.
- Its large leaves create a modern and elegant look.
5. Bamboo Palm (Chamaedorea seifrizii)
- Excellent for humidifying the air and removing toxins.
- Grows well indoors with indirect light.
- Ideal for living rooms and offices.
6. Aloe Vera (Aloe barbadensis miller)
- In addition to purifying the air, it has medicinal properties.
- Requires direct sunlight and moderate watering.
- Helps filter pollutants released by paints and chemical products.
7. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
- Helps reduce mold and allergens in the environment.
- Thrives in hanging pots and tolerates low light.
- Requires frequent watering without over-saturating the soil.
Tips to Keep Your Air-Purifying Plants Healthy
- Water correctly: Avoid overwatering the soil, but don’t let it dry out completely.
- Place them in suitable locations: Many of these plants prefer indirect light.
- Clean the leaves regularly: Dust buildup can make it harder for plants to absorb toxins.
- Fertilize every two months: Use natural fertilizers like eggshells or coffee grounds.